Sioux Falls, SD — September 16, 2026 — Lutheran Planned Generosity of South Dakota (LPGSD) is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul Knecht as its new Executive Director, succeeding Kathy McHenry, who is retiring after nearly ten years in the role.
“Paul brings more than 30 years of nonprofit leadership experience and a firm commitment to his faith and to the church and its ministries,” said McHenry. “I am especially grateful that the board took the time for a careful search and thoughtful transition. I look forward to seeing Paul build on LPGSD’s 40+ year history, leading it into the next chapter.”
Knecht most recently served as Executive Director of the South Dakota Dental Association and Dental Foundation, leading both organizations since 1998. A South Dakota native and graduate of SDSU, Paul is a member of Lutheran Memorial Church in Pierre. He and his wife, Kim, make their home in Pierre, South Dakota, and have two children and two grandchildren. Outside of his professional and community involvement, Paul enjoys spending time in the great outdoors, with a particular passion for upland game hunting and fly fishing.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as Executive Director of LPGSD,” said Knecht. “I look forward to getting to know the people, congregations and ministries we serve across the state and to working together to encourage faithful generosity in support of those ministries.”
McHenry will work with Knecht during the transition before officially concluding her tenure on October 31.
Those interested in an introduction or conversation with Knecht may contact Bob Jensen, LPGSD Administrative Assistant, at 605.274.5030 or lpgsd@sdsynod.org.
About Lutheran Planned Generosity of South Dakota
Lutheran Planned Generosity of South Dakota is a ministry of the South Dakota Synod, ELCA, in partnership with the ELCA Foundation, Augustana University, Luther Seminary, Lutheran Social Services, Wartburg Seminary, Lutherans Outdoors in South Dakota, St. Dysmas Prison Ministries, Lutheran Campus Ministries, and Heartland Ephphatha dedicated to providing education and assistance with charitable giving and legacy planning. For more information, visit www.lpgsd.org.
Media Contact:
Rev. Dr. Aaron Matson
Director of Communications
South Dakota Synod, ELCA
605-274-5035
amatson@sdsynod.org
www.sdsynod.org
